Is Houston more expensive than Knoxville?

Houston is 0.5% more expensive than Knoxville overall. Rent is 5.9% higher, groceries 1.2% cheaper, and restaurants 6.5% more expensive.

Which city has better purchasing power, Knoxville or Houston?

Knoxville has a purchasing power index of 131.7 while Houston has 176.5 (NYC = 100). Houston offers better purchasing power.

Cost of Living Comparison · 2026

🇺🇸 Knoxville vs 🇺🇸 Houston

2026

Houston is 0.5% more expensive

Category	🇺🇸 Knoxville	🇺🇸 Houston	Difference
Cost of Living	64.5	64.8	+0.5%
Rent	37.4	39.6	+5.9%
Groceries	68.5	67.7	-1.2%
Restaurants	66.3	70.6	+6.5%
Purchasing Power	131.7	176.5	+34.0%

Data verified Q1 2026 · Source: Numbeo cost-of-living indices (NYC = 100 baseline) · Indices reflect relative costs; absolute prices vary by neighbourhood.

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🇺🇸 Cost of Living in Knoxville

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